The International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2) has announced the appointment of Scott Beale as its next Chief Executive Officer, a move that signals a renewed focus on global workforce development and strategic advancement for one of cybersecurity’s most influential nonprofit organizations. Beale’s leadership takes effect on January 6, 2026, following a comprehensive global search led by the ISC2 Board of Directors.
Beale succeeds Debra Taylor, who has served as Acting CEO while continuing in her role as Chief Financial Officer. ISC2’s nearly 600,000-strong community—including CISSP holders and industry leaders worldwide—will look to Beale for guidance on navigating evolving professional and workforce demands.
“Scott is an exceptional leader with a unique combination of global workforce expertise, operational strength, and values-driven leadership,” said James Packer, ISC2 Board Chair. “As cybersecurity threats accelerate and demand for skilled professionals grows worldwide, Scott is the CEO who will guide ISC2’s next era—enhancing member value, deepening our global impact, and strengthening the cybersecurity workforce the world depends upon.”
Beale brings more than 25 years of experience leading organizations focused on people, capability building, and mission execution. His background includes senior leadership roles at the U.S. Peace Corps, where he oversaw operations in more than 60 countries, and as the founder of Atlas Corps, a global leadership development nonprofit.
In announcing his new role, Beale emphasized the profession’s importance and ISC2’s standing within it:
“I am honored to join ISC2 at a pivotal time for the cybersecurity profession,” Beale said. “Cybersecurity is central to global safety, economic resilience, and public trust. ISC2 has a remarkable foundation — with gold-standard certifications like the CISSP, a powerful global membership, and a mission that matters. I am energized to work with members, staff, volunteers, partners, and the Board to strengthen member value, expand our global reach, and ensure ISC2 continues to lead as the trusted voice of the cybersecurity workforce.”
He added that his career’s focus on leadership development and organizational strength will inform his approach to the role:
“My career has centered on developing leaders and strengthening organizations around the world. I will bring that same commitment to ISC2 to support members, build a diverse and robust cyber talent pipeline, and prepare the profession for the emerging challenges of AI, quantum, and an increasingly complex threat landscape.”
Cybersecurity has been grappling with an ongoing workforce shortage even as digital risk expands across public and private sectors. ISC2’s appointment of a leader with deep experience in workforce initiatives and global talent infrastructure suggests a strategic pivot toward broader engagement, community building, and expanded professional pathways.
Beale’s leadership begins at a time when certifications—from entry-level credentials to advanced designations such as the CISSP—remain key indicators of practitioner capability and readiness. How his tenure will shape ISC2’s certification strategy, training offerings, and global footprint will be closely watched by members and employers alike.
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